Types of Jazz Bands

Jazz bands can be small or large, with some as small as three members and others as large as 10 or 12. Some will adjust the size of their band and equipment depending on the occasion and client’s needs. From small birthday celebrations to major festivals, hiring high-quality musicians can make a huge difference on your event.

There are a variety of jazz sub-genres to choose from.

• Swing jazz bands: Think music from composers and jazz musicians such as Louis Armstrong, Count Basie, Duke Ellington, and Glenn Miller. In the 1930s and 1940s, this genre became well-known.
  
  
• Traditional jazz bands: This genre, sometimes known as ragtime, Dixieland, or New Orleans jazz, arose in response to the triumph of swing in Chicago. The clarinet, trombone, trumpet, and even the banjo and tuba are used more frequently in this type of jazz than saxophones.
  
  
• Jazz standard bands:  The songs these bands play have become part of the jazz classics and constitute the foundation of any jazz musician’s training.
  
  
• Post-modern jukebox bands: This is the newest of the jazz bands mentioned above; these groups recreate pop tunes in a variety of jazz forms.

Does a Jazz Band Suit My Event?

Jazz bands are relatively versatile in that they can deliver background music or a featured performance whether hired for a wedding, cocktail hour, party, or corporate event.

Some jazz background music would be well-suited to black-tie events such as corporate functions or charity events. The perfect music to set the mood without overpowering the event.

On the other hand, and with the emergence of the post-modern jukebox, jazz bands are increasingly being used as headline acts for weddings and other special events.

How Many Musicians Are in a Jazz Band?

Jazz bands can range in size from trios to a full 20-piece band—the number of people you should be determined by the atmosphere, or tone, you want to set at the event. A small jazz trio or quartet could be ideal for a dinner or tea party, while a large 15–20-piece big jazz band might be ideal for a larger party or awards ceremony.

Most companies will adjust the size to fit your budget and requirements.

Can I Request Specific Songs?

Absolutely! Most jazz bands can play a wide variety of music, so check their song list first to see whether your song requests are already on the list.

Otherwise, notify the jazz band ahead of time; in the odd case that they are unfamiliar with your song, they’ll learn it for your event.

How Far in Advance Should You Book?

We suggest making a reservation as soon as possible, especially if you have any specific requests.

With that said, last-minute bookings are common and we can easily get you a jazz band on short notice if available.